Pacific Coast Highway Beach Camping Itinerary: Road Trip and Camp from San Diego to Seattle

1. Planning Your Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

Getting Ready for an Epic West Coast Adventure

Dreaming of a road trip along the stunning Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) from San Diego to Seattle? Before you hit the road, a little planning goes a long way. Here’s how to set yourself up for an unforgettable beach camping journey along America’s iconic coastline.

Prepping Your Route

The PCH (mostly Highway 1 and US-101) offers breathtaking views, quirky towns, and endless beaches. Map out your route ahead of time to maximize your experience. Consider how many days you have, your must-see spots, and daily driving distances. Apps like Google Maps or Roadtrippers can help you visualize stops and estimate travel times.

Sample Itinerary Outline

Mapping Key Stops & Must-Sees

The West Coast is packed with amazing spots. Highlight your favorite beaches, state parks, lighthouses, surf towns, and foodie destinations. Don’t forget hidden gems like tide pools or whale watching points!

PCH Highlights by State

Reserving Campsites Early!

PCH beach campsites are popular—especially in summer! Reserve ahead using sites like Recreation.gov, Reserve America, or state park websites. Check if sites allow tents, RVs, or both, and confirm any fire restrictions or amenities (like showers or hookups).

Campsite Booking Tips:

• Book 6 months out: Especially for weekends or holidays.
• Select oceanfront spots: For the best sunrise/sunset views.
• Double-check site size: Make sure it fits your vehicle/tent.

Packing Essentials for West Coast Weather

The weather on the PCH is famously unpredictable—sunny one minute, foggy or chilly the next. Pack layers and be ready for coastal breezes and occasional rain.

Your Adventure Starts Here!

The Pacific Coast Highway promises epic scenery and memories that last a lifetime. With a well-planned route, reserved campsites, and gear prepped for anything the coast throws your way, you’re all set for an amazing journey from San Diego to Seattle.

2. Starting Out in San Diego

San Diego is the perfect kickoff point for your Pacific Coast Highway beach camping adventure. With its laid-back vibe, gorgeous coastline, and iconic SoCal eats, you’ll want to spend a little time soaking it all in before heading north. Here’s how to make the most of your San Diego start.

Top Beach Campgrounds in San Diego

Must-See Local Spots Before You Hit the Road

• La Jolla Cove: Watch sea lions basking or rent a kayak for crystal-clear adventures.
• Cabrillo National Monument: Incredible ocean views and tide pools—perfect for a morning hike.
• Old Town San Diego: Step back into California’s past with vibrant shops and historic sites.
• Sunset Cliffs Natural Park: Iconic photo ops and some of the best sunset views in SoCal.
• Balboa Park: Stroll through gardens, museums, and Spanish-style architecture.

Classic SoCal Eats to Try in San Diego

Your First Steps on the PCH Adventure

Packing up from San Diego’s sandy shores sets the tone for an epic road trip. Fill your cooler with local favorites (don’t forget some carne asada fries!), charge your camera for those first coastline shots, and get ready to experience California dreaming at its finest as you head north along Highway 1.

3. Coastal Camping Through California

California’s stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is a dream come true for campers and road trippers. From sun-soaked beaches in Malibu to the misty redwoods of Big Sur, this route offers some of the most scenic beach camping in the country. Here’s your guide to unforgettable campsites and classic coastal towns you won’t want to miss.

Must-Visit Coastal Campsites

Iconic California Beach Towns Worth Exploring

• Malibu: Surf culture, upscale dining, and beautiful beaches like Zuma and El Matador.
• Santa Barbara: Spanish-style downtown, Stearns Wharf, and friendly vibes.
• Pismo Beach: Classic pier, ATV dunes, and fresh clam chowder.
• Carmel-by-the-Sea: Fairytale cottages, boutique shops, and art galleries.
• Monterey: World-famous aquarium and Cannery Row history.
• Big Sur: Rugged cliffs, iconic Bixby Bridge, and breathtaking Pacific views.

Camping Tips for the California Coastline

• Book early: Coastal campsites are popular and can fill up months ahead—especially during summer.
• Pack for all weather: Mornings can be foggy and cool even in July or August; layers are your friend!
• No campfire? No problem: Some sites may have fire restrictions—bring a portable stove for cooking.
• Respect wildlife: Sea otters, harbor seals, and migrating whales are common sights—enjoy from a safe distance!
• Bears aren’t common on the beach but raccoons are: Store food properly to avoid unwanted visitors at night.

4. Experiencing Oregon’s Rugged Coast

Hiker-Friendly Beaches You Can’t Miss

Oregon’s coastline is famous for its dramatic cliffs, sea stacks, and wide sandy beaches. Unlike some parts of California where private land limits access, most of Oregon’s beaches are public and open to everyone. This means you can pull over almost anywhere along the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 101 in Oregon) and find a trail down to the sand. Some top spots for beach hikes include:

Unique State Park Campgrounds Along the Coastline

Oregon’s state parks are a camper’s dream come true. Many campgrounds are located right behind sand dunes or within a short walk to the water. Here are a few favorites for your Pacific Coast road trip:

• Nehalem Bay State Park: Surrounded by forest and sand dunes with direct beach access and yurts for rent.
• Beverly Beach State Park: Nestled in coastal forest with easy trails leading straight to a long sandy beach.
• Harris Beach State Park: Near Brookings, this campground offers beautiful sea stack views and excellent tide pooling.
• Cape Lookout State Park: Sites in thick coastal forest just steps from the ocean—perfect for misty mornings and evening walks.
• Bullards Beach State Park: Close to Bandon’s Old Town and famous beaches; great spot for family camping.

The Tradition of Beach Bonfires in Oregon

One of the best things about camping along Oregon’s coast is gathering around a beach bonfire as the sun sets. Unlike California’s stricter regulations, many Oregon beaches allow small fires below the high tide line—just be sure to follow posted rules at each location. Bring firewood (don’t collect driftwood), marshmallows for s’mores, and maybe even some local Dungeness crab to roast!

How to Enjoy a Safe Bonfire on the Beach:

• Check local rules: Every beach has its own guidelines—look for signs or ask a park ranger.
• Keep fires small: Use existing fire rings if available or build below the high tide line away from grass and logs.
• Douse completely: Pour water over your fire until it’s cold before leaving.
• No burning trash: Only burn clean wood—leave no trace behind!

Tasting Oregon: Local Food Stops Worth Pulling Over For

No Pacific Coast Highway camping trip is complete without sampling Oregon’s coastal eats. From fresh seafood shacks to quirky roadside bakeries, here are some favorite food stops:

Your Oregon Coast Adventure Awaits!

The Oregon stretch of your San Diego-to-Seattle beach camping adventure offers wild beauty, classic camping experiences, cozy bonfires, and plenty of delicious local eats right off Highway 101. Pack your hiking boots and appetite—it’s time to explore!

5. Washington Beaches and the Road to Seattle

Discovering Washington’s Coastal Gems

As your Pacific Coast Highway adventure brings you into Washington, get ready for some of the most rugged and wild coastline in the Pacific Northwest. The beaches here are less crowded, lined with driftwood, and perfect for classic beach camping experiences.

Top Spots for Beach Camping in Washington

Exploring Olympic National Park from the Coast

If you love a mix of mountains and beaches, Olympic National Park is a must-stop. You’ll find mossy rainforests, glacier-capped peaks, and remote stretches of sand all within a short drive. Plan for hikes through Hoh Rain Forest, strolls along Rialto or Ruby Beach, and plenty of time to spot wildlife like bald eagles and otters.

Packing Tips for Washington’s Coastal Weather

• Layer Up: Mornings can be chilly even in summer—bring a cozy hoodie or fleece.
• Rain Gear: A waterproof jacket is essential as mist and showers are common.
• Campsite Prep: Bring extra tarps to keep your gear dry if rain rolls in overnight.
• Tide Charts: Some beaches require walking at low tide—check local charts before heading out.

The Final Stretch: Arriving in Seattle

Your road trip wraps up as you roll into Seattle—a vibrant city surrounded by water and mountains. Before you return your rental RV or car, make time to visit Pike Place Market, take a ferry across Puget Sound, or grab coffee at a local café. If you want one last night outdoors, check out campgrounds near Deception Pass State Park or within easy reach of the city for a peaceful finish to your journey.

6. Essential Tips for PCH Beach Camping

Campfire Rules Along the Pacific Coast Highway

Campfires are a classic part of camping, but rules can change from beach to beach along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). Always check local regulations before lighting a fire. Many California and Oregon state beaches only allow fires in designated rings or grills, while some Washington campgrounds may have total fire bans during dry seasons. Bring your own firewood—collecting driftwood is usually not allowed—and never leave your fire unattended.

Wildlife Safety for Beach Campers

The PCH passes through diverse habitats—expect raccoons at Southern California beaches, curious deer in the redwoods, and even bears near some northern campgrounds. Store all food in sealed containers or provided bear lockers. Never feed wildlife, even seagulls, as it disrupts natural behaviors and can attract more animals to campsites. Keep a safe distance from all animals and pack out trash daily.

PCH Wildlife Safety Quick Guide

Leave No Trace Principles on the PCH Coastline

PCH beach camping means helping protect these beautiful places for future travelers. Stick to established campsites and trails, pack out all trash (including micro-trash like bottle caps), and minimize campfire impact by using existing rings. If you bring pets, keep them leashed and clean up after them. Respect wildlife and other campers by keeping noise down and lights low at night.

Packing for Changing Coastal Climates

The weather along the Pacific Coast can shift fast—from foggy mornings in Big Sur to windy afternoons on the Oregon coast. Dress in layers: bring a warm jacket, rain shell, and quick-dry clothing. Even in summer, nighttime temps can drop into the 40s (°F) north of San Francisco. Don’t forget a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and sturdy shoes for rocky shorelines or muddy trails.

PCH Beach Camping Packing Checklist